For many in India, winter is synonymous with Sarson ka Saag and Makki di Roti. It’s a comfort food that defines the season. But recent nutritional analysis suggests that this beloved Punjabi dish might be the ultimate hack for the millions suffering from winter insomnia.
As the days get shorter, our circadian rhythms can get confused. The lack of sunlight can disrupt melatonin production, leading to restless nights. Instead of turning to sleeping pills, turning to your plate might be the answer. Mustard greens (Sarson) are packed with magnesium and calcium—two minerals that are vital for nervous system regulation.
"Magnesium is often called the 'calming mineral'," explains Dr. Priya Kapoor, a dietician practicing in Chandigarh. "It helps activate the parasympathetic nervous system—the one responsible for rest and relaxation. A deficiency in magnesium can lead to muscle cramps and heightened stress response at night, which is common in winter."
The hack is timing and preparation. While Saag is heavy, eating a moderate portion for dinner (around 7 PM) provides your body with tryptophan co-factors. The calcium in the greens helps the brain use the tryptophan to manufacture melatonin. Furthermore, the slight heat from the ginger and garlic in the Saag improves blood circulation, warming up cold feet—a common barrier to falling asleep.
So, this February, let your dinner be your sleeping pill. Just ensure you eat it early enough to digest the fibers, allowing the magnesium to do its job of relaxing your muscles and sending you off to a deep, restorative sleep amidst the cold.
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